Charlottesville updates snow removal violations and enforcement

Winter weather is finally here. But winter weather brings winter precipitation. Who can forget last year’s record snowfall? And, of course, the related snow-clearing problems?

The City of Charlottesville has decided to change things up a bit. Snow removal violations, once a misdemeanor offense, will now be considered a property maintenance issue. (Enforcement has switched hands as well, from city police to the City’s Neighborhood Development Services.)

Here are some details of the new code:
-Property owners have 24 hours after a snowfall to clear sidewalks. (They had 12 hours before.)
-Those who don’t clear the sidewalks will first be issued a warning. If the warning has no effect, the city will hire a private contractor to do the job and will bill the property owner.
-During a snow emergency, parking restrictions will apply to West Main Street, Market Street, Water Street, High Street and the Downtown Mall crossings.

You can also volunteer your assistance during snowfalls by calling 970-3700.